What it is
Vig, or vigorish, is the amount a sportsbook charges for accepting a wager, essentially its fee for facilitating the bet. It's built into the odds offered, ensuring that if an equal amount of money is bet on both sides of a contest, the sportsbook still makes a profit. For example, if a standard point spread bet requires you to bet $110 to win $100, the extra $10 is the vig.
The vig is how sportsbooks guarantee profitability, regardless of the game's outcome, provided they balance the betting action. A typical vig might be 10%, meaning a bettor must risk $11 to win $10. Investors analyze sportsbook financial reports, paying attention to gross gaming revenue, which is directly impacted by the vig and the volume of bets. A higher vig or greater betting volume translates to more revenue for the sportsbook operator.
Why it matters
The vig is a sportsbook's primary revenue source, directly impacting its profitability and the overall financial health of the sports betting industry.
Reviewed under editorial standardsUpdated September 26, 2026Not investment advice